What is a Certified Physician Assistant (PA-C)?
At Boulder Medical Center, our Certified Physician Assistants (PA-C) are integral to the care team. These highly trained medical professionals diagnose illnesses, develop treatment plans, prescribe medications, and perform many of the same services as physicians—all while collaborating closely with the physician team to ensure seamless, patient-centered care.
What Education Does a Physician Assistant Have?
In general, earning a physician assistant (PA) certification involves completing a master’s degree program of about 2-3 years after earning a bachelor’s degree. Overall, physician assistant education generally spans 6-7 years after high school.
PA programs are intensive and focused on providing practical medical training within a shorter time frame than a medical degree. The curriculum includes courses in medical sciences, clinical medicine, and patient care. PA students undergo approximately 2,000 hours of clinical rotations in core areas like family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, surgery, and emergency medicine.
PA-Cs Collaborate with Physicians in Team Approach
Each physician assistant (PA) at Boulder Medical Center partners with physicians to provide coordinated, efficient, and compassionate care. This team-based approach means patients benefit from the combined expertise of multiple medical professionals, improving access, continuity, and overall outcomes.
Physician assistants and physicians communicate regularly about patient needs, treatment plans, and follow-up care. This collaboration helps reduce wait times and ensures every patient receives the proper care at the right time.
Certified, Highly Qualified, and Dedicated to Patients
Physician assistants hold national certification and state licensure, reflecting extensive graduate-level medical education, rigorous clinical training, and a commitment to ongoing professional development. Our physician assistants emphasize listening, patient education, and open communication. They help individuals understand their care and actively participate in their health.
According to recent national surveys:
- 90% of patients view PAs as trusted healthcare provider
- 91% believe PAs improve access to the care they need (Harris Poll, 2023)
- 9 out of 10 physicians say PAs enhance healthcare delivery and outcomes (Morning Consult, 2024)
A Partner in Every Sense
Physician assistants are fully aligned with your doctor and dedicated to your well-being. From managing chronic conditions to providing preventive care, urgent care, and specialty services, our physician assistants strengthen the connection between physicians and patients—making care more accessible, responsive, and personal.